Nature reserves in Cape Town opened on 17 July, during lockdown level 3, so we visited Strandfontein the next afternoon to see and enjoy some birds! It was great to see the scarce Maccoa Duck (both a male and female) close to the pan edge.
Maccoa Duck male, with typical short, upright tail
Maccoa Duck female, eye-stripe distinguishes it from other brown ducks
Black-necked Grebe, red eye still present in non-breeding plumage
Greater Flamingo juvenile (note the dark bill tip; Lesser juveniles have dark bills)
African Marsh Harrier quartering over the reeds
Sacred Ibis, landing with stick to add to new nest
Dieter is a qualified Bird Ringer and trainer, registered bird guide, and Weaver expert. Dieter is able to act as a bird guide for day trips in Cape Town, and is able to customise birds tours in South Africa and beyond. View all posts by Dieter →
